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Picking the right dishwasher under $800 makes a measurable difference in daily kitchen life. The right model saves time, reduces noise in open-plan homes, and cuts water and energy use without sacrificing cleaning power. For many buyers this price band hits the sweet spot between useful features and long-term reliability. This guide shortlists the top dishwasher options in that budget range and evaluates them against practical criteria like wash performance, noise level, energy and water efficiency, and cycle flexibility. Read on to compare the leading picks and see which traits matter most for your kitchen layout and routine.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | Kenmore 24" Premium Hybrid Tub Dishwasher |  |
| Best Value The sweet spot between price and what you get | Midea 18-Inch Built-In Dishwasher |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | EUHOMY Countertop Dishwasher DW001-5 |  |
| Top Rated A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | AIRMSEN Countertop Dishwasher TDQR03 |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | COMFEE' Countertop Dishwasher CDC22P2AWW |  |
| Best Seller A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | Midea 18" Built-in Dishwasher |  |
Kenmore 24" Premium Hybrid Tub Dishwasher
| Installation Type | Built-In |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 12 load |
| Additional Features | Cycle Status Indicator, MoreSpace Adjustable Rack, SmartWash Cycle, Soil Sensor, UltraWash System |
| Noise | 54 db |
| Cycle Options | Delay Start, Express Wash, Heated Dry, Normal, Heavy Duty, Eco Wash, Sani Rinse, High Temp |
This Kenmore 24" Premium Hybrid Tub Dishwasher targets everyday cleaning with features that simplify loading and deliver reliable results. The UltraWash system uses two pressurized spray arms and a multi-stage filter to tackle stuck-on food while the SmartWash sensor adjusts temperature, pressure and run time so you do not have to guess which cycle to choose. The MoreSpace adjustable upper rack lifts, lowers or removes to fit taller items, and the 12-place setting capacity suits typical family meal cleanup. Available cycle options include Heavy Duty, Eco Wash, Sani Rinse and Heated Dry, and the unit is ENERGY STAR certified and rated at about 54 dBA for relatively quiet operation. Practical benefits include reduced pre-rinsing, flexible loading and a pocket-handle flush front that fits modern kitchens. Trade-offs are its 12-place setting size rather than larger 14–15 place capacities and a midrange noise level compared with the quietest models, but for kitchens seeking balanced performance under $800 it delivers strong basic cleaning and useful convenience features.
Best for: Buyers who want a dependable, midpriced built-in dishwasher that balances automated cleaning, flexible loading and energy efficiency for everyday family use.
Less Ideal for: Large households that need maximum capacity or buyers who prioritize the absolute quietest dishwasher available should look elsewhere.
- SmartWash sensor automatically adjusts cycle parameters to match soil levels
- UltraWash system with two pressurized spray arms and multi-stage filter for effective cleaning of stuck-on food
- MoreSpace adjustable upper rack provides flexible loading for tall or awkward items
- ENERGY STAR certified for lower annual energy use
- 12 place setting capacity is smaller than some competitors with 14–15 place options
- Noise level around 54 dBA is not as quiet as premium ultra-quiet models
Verdict: A solid midpriced built-in dishwasher that balances smart sensor cleaning and flexible loading for everyday households under $800.
Midea 18-Inch Built-In Dishwasher
| Place settings | 8 |
|---|---|
| Number of programs | 6 |
| Noise level | 52 db |
| Water consumption | 15.5 gph |
| Voltage | 120 volts |
The Midea 18-inch built-in dishwasher is a space-saving unit aimed at apartments or compact kitchens that still need serious cleaning power. It fits eight place settings and uses six wash programs including Heavy, Normal, ECO, Delicate, Quick, and Rinse, plus heated dry, hi-temp sanitize, and a rapid option for quicker loads. The stainless steel tub and adjustable lower basket let you fit larger pans and plates while an integrated handle and LED digital controls keep operation simple. Noise is rated at 52 dB, so it is reasonably quiet for open-plan spaces. Practical features like a 24-hour delay start, removable cutlery basket, and dedicated glass holder make everyday use straightforward. Limitations include the narrow 18-inch width, which reduces overall capacity compared with full-size models, and fewer advanced cycles or smart features you might find on higher-end machines. For buyers who need a compact, energy-efficient built-in dishwasher that handles everyday and heavily soiled items, this Midea model is a capable, budget-friendly choice.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize efficient use of limited kitchen space and want a reliable, no-frills built-in dishwasher that cleans well and saves energy.
Less Ideal for: Households that need high-capacity loads, large family runtime between cycles, or advanced smart features should consider larger or feature-rich models instead.
- Slim 18-inch footprint fits tight under-counter spaces
- Stainless steel tub with heated dry and hi-temp sanitize for hygienic cleaning
- Six wash programs including a quick cycle for fast turnarounds
- Adjustable racks and removable cutlery basket to accommodate larger cookware
- Energy Star certified for lower energy consumption
- Smaller capacity than standard 24-inch dishwashers
- No advanced smart connectivity or specialty cycles beyond basics
Verdict: A compact, energy-efficient built-in dishwasher that delivers solid cleaning performance for small kitchens and budget-conscious buyers.
EUHOMY Countertop Dishwasher DW001-5
| Installation Type | Countertop |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 5 liters |
| Noise | 40 db |
| Cycle Options | Fruit, Dry, Normal, Fast, ECO, Baby care/Heavy duty |
| Display | LED |
The EUHOMY countertop dishwasher is a portable tabletop unit designed for apartments, RVs, and kitchens without hard plumbing. It offers six programs including Quick (29 minutes), Normal, ECO, Baby Care/Heavy and a Fruit mode, and uses dual spray arms for 360 degree coverage. You can run it off the internal 5 liter tank or connect the included hoses to a faucet for continuous supply, and its LED display and touch controls make cycle selection straightforward. The machine emphasizes convenience: it fits about 30 items per load, runs quietly at 40 dB, and includes an extended ventilation/dry feature that can keep dishes aired up to 73 hours to prevent odors. Practical limitations are the need to pre-scrape heavy soils for best results and the modest tank capacity that may require faucet hookup for repeated large loads; very large pots and oversized bakeware will not fit. Certification and a one-year warranty add reassurance for daily use.
Best for: Buyers on a budget who need a fully featured, plug-and-play countertop dishwasher for small households, rentals, or RVs and value quiet operation and flexible water options.
Less Ideal for: Households that routinely wash large cookware, bulk loads, or need a built-in permanent dishwasher should consider a full-size model instead.
- Built-in 5L tank lets you use it without permanent hookup
- Six program choices including a 29-minute quick wash and high-temperature Baby Care mode
- Runs quietly at 40 dB suitable for open-plan living or apartments
- Dual spray arms provide 360 degree coverage for thorough cleaning
- Automatic drying plus up to 72–73 hours ventilation to keep dishes fresh
- Tank size and internal capacity limit repeated large loads without faucet connection
- Not suitable for oversized pots, pans, or large baking sheets
Verdict: A budget-friendly, plug-and-play countertop dishwasher that delivers quiet, versatile cleaning for small kitchens and renters.
AIRMSEN Countertop Dishwasher TDQR03
| Installation Type | Countertop |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 1.2 gallons |
| Number of settings | 6 |
| Noise | 50 db |
| Energy Consumption | 950 watts |
This AIRMSEN countertop dishwasher is a portable solution for small households, apartments, and RVs that need a full dishwasher without a permanent hookup. It uses a built-in 5 liter (1.2 gallon) water tank so you can run cycles anywhere or hook it to a faucet with the included hoses. The unit offers six program options including baby care, delicate and speed modes, plus a 1-hour heated dry and a 72-hour ventilated storage function to keep tableware hygienic after a cycle. Cleaning power comes from 14 nozzles and dual spray arms with water up to 167°F for better stain removal. Controls are touch-based with an angled LED display and an interior light that makes loading and monitoring easier. Noise runs around 50 dB, so it is noticeable but not overly loud in small spaces. Expect limitations typical of compact countertop models: it fits roughly 2–4 place settings and requires angle placement for larger plates, and energy consumption is on the higher side for its class. For buyers who need a self-contained, ready-to-use dishwasher, this model balances convenience and cleaning performance.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize a reliable, ready-to-use dishwasher that cleans thoroughly without plumbing modifications and need a compact unit for small homes or mobile living.
Less Ideal for: Large households that run frequent high-capacity loads or buyers who need full-size built-in dishwasher performance and capacity.
- Built-in 5 L water tank allows use without faucet hookup
- Six program options including baby care and a high-temperature wash up to 167°F
- Heated 1-hour drying plus 72-hour ventilated storage to keep dishes dry and hygienic
- Compact countertop footprint designed for small kitchens, apartments, and RVs
- Touch controls with angled LED display and interior light for easier operation
- Limited capacity suitable for 2–4 people and requires angling larger plates
- Energy consumption listed at 950 watts which is relatively high for a compact unit
- Noise level around 50 dB may be noticeable in very small spaces
Verdict: A self-contained countertop dishwasher that delivers factory-quality cleaning and convenient no-hookup operation for small kitchens and portable living.
COMFEE' Countertop Dishwasher CDC22P2AWW
| Installation Type | Countertop |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 2.77 gallons |
| Number of settings | 8 |
| Noise | 49 db |
| Water Consumption | 2.85 gph |
The COMFEE' countertop dishwasher is a portable unit sized for 2–3 people that handles up to six place settings with eight program options including Heavy, Baby-Care, Glass, ECO and a 45-minute Speed cycle. It is designed for tabletop or built-in cupboard placement and can connect to a faucet using the included adapter and hoses, or be filled from its internal tank in some configurations. Key practical features are the 360° spiral spray with multiple nozzles and a high-temperature Power Wash up to about 154°F for better grease removal, plus an Extra Drying option and child lock for safety. The unit is fairly quiet at 49 dB and uses about 2.77 gallons per cycle, which helps keep water bills down. Limitations to consider are its smaller capacity compared with full-size machines and the need for a suitable faucet connection for some installations, which may complicate setup in some kitchens or RVs. For buyers focused on space and efficiency this model delivers strong cleaning performance in a compact package.
Best for: Buyers who need a space-saving, energy- and water-efficient dishwasher for a small household, apartment, dorm or RV and value versatile wash programs and solid cleaning performance.
Less Ideal for: Large families or homes that require full-size capacity and higher cycle throughput should choose a built-in full-size dishwasher instead.
- Compact footprint fits on counters or inside small cupboards
- Eight wash programs including Baby-Care and a 45-minute Speed cycle for flexible cleaning
- 360° spray with multiple nozzles and a high-temperature Power Wash for effective grease removal
- Energy Star rated and low water use at about 2.77 gallons per cycle
- Child lock and Extra Drying option improve safety and dry results
- Smaller six-place setting capacity limits how many items can be washed per cycle
- Requires faucet adapter/connection for plumbed operation which may need extra hardware or effort
Verdict: A compact, Energy Star countertop dishwasher that delivers strong cleaning and low water use for small households looking to save space and utilities.
Midea 18" Built-in Dishwasher
| Capacity | 8 liters |
|---|---|
| Noise | 52 db |
| Cycle Options | Heavy, Normal, ECO, Delicate, Quick, Rinse |
| Voltage | 120 volts |
| Water Consumption | 15.5 gph |
This slimline Midea 18" built-in dishwasher aims to deliver full-size washing performance in a narrow footprint for apartments or small kitchens. It fits up to 8 place settings and offers six programs (Heavy, Normal, ECO, Delicate, Quick, Rinse) plus heated dry, hi-temp sanitize and a 24-hour delay start for scheduling. The stainless steel tub and LED digital controls make operation straightforward, and adjustable racks and a removable cutlery basket help fit larger pots or stemware. At a reported noise level of 52 dB it is reasonably quiet for compact units, and the heated dry and high-temperature sanitize cycles improve hygiene and reduce towel-drying. Trade-offs are its smaller overall capacity compared with full-width models and limited cycle variety compared with premium dishwashers, and installation requires an under-counter built-in fit. For buyers prioritizing space savings and basic but effective cleaning and sanitizing functions, this unit covers the essentials without complicated controls or extras.
Best for: Buyers who need a reliable, space-saving built-in dishwasher for an apartment, RV conversion, or small kitchen and prefer straightforward controls and sanitizing performance over extra features.
Less Ideal for: Households that run large daily loads, need full-width capacity, or want extensive smart features and cycle customization.
- Slim 18-inch footprint fits small kitchens and under-counter spaces
- Stainless steel tub with heated dry and hi-temp sanitize for better hygiene
- Six practical wash programs plus LED digital controls and delay start for convenience
- Adjustable racks and removable cutlery basket allow loading of larger items
- Smaller 8-place capacity limits load size compared with standard 24-inch dishwashers
- Fewer advanced cycles and features than higher-end models
Verdict: A compact, practical built-in dishwasher that delivers solid cleaning and sanitizing in tight kitchens where space and straightforward operation matter most.
Choosing the Right Dishwasher: Key Factors to Consider
Wash Performance and Soil Types
How effectively a dishwasher removes common kitchen soils is the primary concern. Look for machines with varied spray arm coverage, good soil-sensing or cycle modulation, and heat options that finish drying without scorching delicate items.
Performance varies by cycle and loading. Heavy-cycle power matters for pots and pans, while gentler settings preserve glassware. Consider how the dishwasher treats stuck-on starches versus greasy residue and whether additional rinse or soak features are available for tough jobs.
Noise Level and Household Comfort
Noise output matters especially in open-plan homes or small apartments where the kitchen flows into living spaces. Decibel ratings offer a baseline; lower numbers generally mean a more pleasant environment during daytime and evening use.
Also consider how noise is perceived: short bursts of louder pump or drain noise can be more noticeable than a steady hum. Look for designs with sound-dampening insulation and components positioned to minimize vibration transfer to cabinetry.
Energy and Water Efficiency
Operating cost over the life of the dishwasher is shaped by how much water and electricity each cycle uses. Efficient cycles reduce utility bills and environmental impact, which is important if you run the machine multiple times per week.
Pay attention to cycle times versus consumption: a very short cycle that uses more water may not save money. Look for efficient wash algorithms, soil sensors that avoid unnecessary repeat rinses, and options like eco or express cycles for light loads.
Rack Design and Loading Flexibility
A dishwasher that loads well will feel more convenient every day. Adjustable racks, fold-down tines, and dedicated holders for stemware or utensils increase usable capacity and let you handle awkward items without blocking spray arms.
Consider whether the upper rack can be raised or lowered to accommodate tall glasses or large plates below. Simple, tool-free adjustments tend to be more durable and quicker to use in routine loading.
Cycle Options and Usability
Cycle selection affects how well the dishwasher handles different load types. Useful features include a quick wash for lightly soiled items, a sanitize or high-temp option for hygiene-sensitive loads, and a delayed start for off-peak energy use.
Controls should be intuitive and clearly labeled. Physical buttons and big icons are often easier to operate than cryptic digital menus, particularly in kitchens where multiple household members load or run the machine.
Reliability and Ease of Maintenance
A dependable dishwasher minimizes future headaches. Look for straightforward maintenance items such as removable filters, accessible spray arms, and simple diagnostics for common issues.
Durability indicators include robust rack coatings, corrosion-resistant components, and parts that are easy to clean. Also consider how easy it is to clear clogs or access the drain area without needing specialized tools or a service visit.
Choosing the Right Size and Configuration
Dishwashers come in standard widths and also in compact sizes for smaller kitchens. Measure the installation space including clearances for the door swing, kickplate, and adjacent cabinetry before narrowing your choices.
Built-in standard-width units are the most common and provide the largest interior capacity. Slimline or compact models fit tighter spaces but may require more thoughtful loading to handle the same number of place settings.
- Measure height, width, and depth at the installation spot beforehand
- Account for plumbing and electrical access behind the unit
- Confirm door swing clearance and space for a fully loaded bottom rack
Drying Performance and Preventing Water Spots
Drying capability varies widely. Heated dry cycles and rinse-aid dispensers help reduce spots, especially on hard water. If you own delicate glassware, look for gentle drying settings or condensation drying modes that lower heat exposure.
Using the right rinse agent and loading to promote airflow between items often improves results more than a single high-heat drying setting. Consider models that offer different drying intensities so you can match mode to load type.
- Rinse aid dispensers are helpful in areas with hard water
- Condensation drying is gentler on plastics and stemware
- Air-dry or fan-assisted options can lower energy use
Installation and Plumbing Considerations
Under-$800 dishwashers still require proper installation for reliable performance. Verify water supply, drain placement, and electrical requirements before purchase. Some local building codes dictate how dishwashers must be hooked up, so consult installation instructions or a professional if unsure.
Leveling and secure mounting prevent leaks and reduce noise from vibration. Pay attention to hose length and orientation to avoid kinks that can impact draining.
- Check that the water inlet and drain align with existing hookups
- Ensure the unit can be leveled within the cabinetry opening
- Confirm the electrical supply type and location match the model
Practical Loading and Cycle Habits
How you load and which cycles you run affect both cleaning results and long-term efficiency. Scraping plates is usually sufficient; full rinsing wastes water. Load items to avoid blocking spray arms and stagger bowls to let water reach surfaces.
For mixed loads, use a standard or auto-sensing cycle rather than the light cycle. Reserve quick cycles for light, single-type loads and heavy cycles for pans and casserole dishes.
- Place heavily soiled items facing the spray source
- Avoid nesting items and leave space between glasses
- Run full loads where practical to maximize per-cycle efficiency
When to Choose Extra Features
Higher-tier features in this price range can still be valuable. Adjustable third racks, built-in water softening, and steam boost options improve convenience and cleaning in specific situations. Evaluate which features you will actually use regularly before prioritizing them.
Sometimes simpler controls and robust core performance are preferable to a long list of features you rarely need. Prioritize features that solve everyday problems you encounter, such as a third rack if you routinely wash cutlery or long utensils.
- Third racks add small-item capacity without sacrificing main racks
- Steam or high-temp prewash assists with baked-on residue
- Water softening options help in areas with mineral-rich supply
How We Chose the Best Dishwasher
We focused on attributes that matter most to regular dishwasher buyers shopping under $800. Our selection filters prioritized consistent wash performance on typical kitchen soils, low noise output for open living spaces, and energy and water usage that keeps operating costs reasonable over time. We also screened for useful rack flexibility and reliable cycle options that handle everything from delicate glassware to heavily soiled pots. We excluded units that lacked essential cycle variety, had persistently poor reliability reports, or failed to meet minimum energy or water-efficiency expectations for this price tier. Editorial judgment weighed real-world usability: loading flexibility, intuitive controls, and simple maintenance received extra attention because they influence daily satisfaction more than isolated spec-sheet numbers. Final picks reflect a balance across wash results, quiet operation, operating cost, durability indicators, and convenience features. These are the dimensions we used to assess and rank each dishwasher.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
How loud is a typical dishwasher in this price range?
Dishwashers under $800 often range from moderately quiet to very quiet depending on insulation and motor design. Expect values anywhere from the mid-40s to low-50s dB for most models. If low noise is critical, target the lower end of that range and look for sound-reducing features.
Are shorter cycles as effective as longer ones?
Short cycles can deliver good results on lightly soiled loads but may not remove baked-on food or heavy grease. For everyday mixed loads, auto or standard cycles that run longer and adjust water and temperature tend to clean more reliably.
Do I need to pre-rinse dishes before loading?
Full pre-rinsing is usually unnecessary and wastes water. Scraping off large food scraps is sufficient for most cycles, especially when the dishwasher has good filtration and spray coverage. Use a quick soak or prewash only for heavily encrusted items.
How important is the dishwasher's energy rating?
Energy ratings indicate likely electricity and water consumption over time, which affects operating costs. In this price band, a more efficient model may cost less to run over several years, so weigh efficiency alongside cleaning performance and features.
Can I install a dishwasher myself?
Many homeowners can install a dishwasher if they are comfortable with basic plumbing and electrical tasks, provided local codes allow it. However, proper leveling, secure hose connections, and correct electrical wiring are important; consider professional installation if you are unsure.
Final Verdict
When choosing a dishwasher under $800, focus on wash performance, noise level, and efficiency first. Rack flexibility and practical cycle options determine everyday convenience, while reliable construction and easy maintenance reduce future hassle. Balance the features you actually need against operating costs and how the unit fits your kitchen. Prioritize the dimensions that affect your daily routine: quieter operation for open spaces, efficient cycles for frequent use, and thoughtful rack design for the dishes you wash most often. That approach will help you pick a model that delivers dependable cleaning and sensible value over time.